All about shampooing the right way!

Shampoos, as a rule contain cleansing agents, perfume, preservatives and conditioning agents that can coat the hair shaft to make the hair appear thicker. In actuality, shampoos, especially those that do not include a conditioner, are specifically meant for the cleansing process! They do not have much of a role to play other than cleaning the grime from your head! The conditioner, added to your shampoo does the softening bit. Conditioning agents smoothen the cuticle scales so the hair doesn't tangle and help to eliminate static electricity from the hair when it dries.

Although to identify a good conditioner would mean that you could experiment a bit, I am sure most people can figure that out rather easily. Like shampoos are meant for cleansing your hair, conditioners have this innate quality of smoothening your hair and removing tangles. It is best if you could give some time to get rid of the conditioner.

Some basic Facts
The letters pH. refers to the acid/alkaline level of a substance. It is calculated on a scale of 1 to 14. Most shampoos range between a pH factor of 5 and 7; medicated varieties have a pH of about 7.3, are near neutral. The sebum has a pH factor of between 4.5 and 5.5, which is mildly acidic. Although bacteria cannot survive in this pH; maintaining this protective layer keeps the scalp and hair at their best.

Here are some of the tips that you must always inculcate to make the bets of your shampoo:

* Always use the correct shampoo for your hair type. You might have to experiment to finds in your hair type and consequently your shampoo, but it really is worth the effort!

* Don't wash your hair in washing-up liquid or soap. These are highly alkaline and will upset your hair's natural pH balance by stripping out the natural oils. As it is there is a natural daily secretion of the oils in your hair; liquid soap will only add in to your miseries.

* Always read the instructions before purchasing your shampoo. Don't blindly go in for brands. Some shampoos need to be left on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing. This is especially the case with medicated shampoos.

* Buy small sachets of shampoo to test which brand is most suitable for you. If it doesn't suit your hair type, there hasn't been any major loss either.

*Don't wash your hair in the bath. Dirty bath water is not conducive for cleaning hair. Rather, it is most difficult to appropriately rinse hair without a shower attachment or separate jug.

* Always wash your brush and comb when you shampoo your hair. Combs and brushes lying on your dressing table tends to accumulate dust so even if you wash your hair frequently, it would not really affect the condition of your hair; they will still remain dirty. A good idea to wash combs is while you are waiting for the conditioner to seep in, after you have shampooed your hair. That way you make the most of the time available. This could also include washing hair bands and rubber bands, in case you have oiled your hair and left them overnight.

* Change your shampoo approximately every two weeks. Hair has this tendency to develop a resistance to certain ingredients after time. It is best if you choose mild shampoos for maximum benefit. Of course the choice depends on your hair type!

* Don't throw away a shampoo that doesn't lather. The amount of suds are determined by the active level of detergent, as well as by the hardness of the water in your area. Besides you could use that shampoo for cleaning other things, for example expensive crystal, or even your expensive T-shirts, since it is a shampoo, the alkalinity will be minimum, leaving the cloth fragrant too!

* Many shampoos are labeled "pH balanced", and this means they have the same acidity level as your hair. Use a shampoo of this type if you have colored hair. These shampoos are not necessary for normal hair. As long as you condition your hair after shampooing, its fine, as then you would not have that drying effect that most shampoos that don't suit you, have.

In conclusion
Don't rely on advertisements that promote a certain product extensively. Instead try it on your hair and then take a decision. It is best to use a product that's formulated for your particular hair type! Like most hair stylists mention, don't brush your hair when they are wet, instead brush them before shampooing to free any tangles and loosen dirt and dead skin cells.

The best way to clean your hair would be to use lukewarm water, as hot water can be uncomfortable on the scalp. Some people have this habit of using their finger nails while gathering lather during their shampoo session. It is best if you could avoid this, as you tend to flake out your scalp when it is at its most delicate stage!